In a significant commemoration of International Women's Day, TAU hosted a momentous one-day symposium titled "Promoting Diversity, Inclusion, and Women Empowerment in the Higher Education System." The event, which saw a convergence of members from the University community, staff, students, and esteemed guests, aimed to ignite conversations and initiatives toward inclusion, diversity, and women's empowerment.
Gracing the symposium were notable figures including the University's Co-Founder, Dr. Mrs. Gloria Adewumi, Vice Chancellor Prof. Francisca Oladipo, the Olori of Oko Irese land, Olori Grace Olawuyi, as well as representatives from sister institutions: Thomas Adewumi International College, Thomas Adewumi Nursery & Primary School, Oko. Distinguished guest speakers also enriched the event with their insights.
A highlight of the event was the inauguration of TA-We, an association comprising Thomas Adewumi University, International College, the Primary School, and the Medical Centre Women. During the inauguration ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Francisca Oladipo delivered a succinct yet inspiring address, outlining the association's core objective of embracing diversity among women within the Thomas Adewumi community.
She articulated that TA-We is envisioned as a platform to unite women from various backgrounds statuses, educational levels, and occupational fields- fostering inclusivity and providing a haven for all women affiliated with Thomas Adewumi organizations. "TAU is a self-sustaining institution and a beacon of excellence in Kwara South senatorial district," Prof. Fransisca stated. "We are committed to ensuring that no woman is marginalized within the Thomas Adewumi family."
Following her remarks, Dr. Adekemi Dahunsi, the Director of Research and the local organizer of the International Women’s Day event, took the stage to introduce the members of the steering committee and the Board of Trustees for TA-We. The committee members, drawn from various branches of the Thomas Adewumi institutions, are tasked with steering the association towards its goals. They include:
- Mrs. Oluwadamilola Ezekiel (Coordinator, TAU)
- Mrs. Mercy Leke (Secretary, TAU)
- Mrs. Iduh (Assistant Secretary, TANPS)
- Mrs. G.O Falade (Financial Secretary, TAICO)
- Mrs. A.A Babafemi (Treasurer, TANPS)
- Mrs. Deborah Ojo (Welfare Officer, TAU)
- Mrs. Olabisi Oshinuga (Publicity Secretary, TAICO)
The Board of Trustees, consisting of prominent figures within the Thomas Adewumi community, will provide guidance and oversight to TA-We:
- Dr. Mrs. Gloria Adewumi, Co-Founder of the Institution
- Prof. Francisca O. Oladipo, Vice-Chancellor
- Olori Grace Olawuyi, representing the host community and Oko Medical Centre
- Miss. Timilehin Adewumi, TAU Director of Legal Services
- Dr. Modupe Aina, Dean, Faculty of Nursing Science
The inauguration of TA-We marks a significant step towards fostering an inclusive environment and empowering women within the Thomas Adewumi community. As the association sets its sails, it aims to be a beacon of empowerment and a catalyst for positive change in the lives of women across all facets of the institution.